1.) Be an advocate and a role model - A Mentor's role is not to place parents or to serve as an authority figure.

2.) Be consistent and maintain regular contact - Many young people have been disappointed by adults in their lives. One of the best ways to build trust is to be a patient and provide regular presence in a young person's life.

3.) Set realistic goals and expecations - Work to build a trusting relationship first. Changes such as improved school performance take time. Achieving short-term goals can build confidence and motivation to tackle long-term goals.

4.) Give your mentee voice and choice in deciding on activities - Provide a range of activity choices for youth.Youth feel more invested in the relationship if they can exercise some control.

5.) Be positive - Offer frequent encouragement and expressions of direct confidence. Notice and remark on positive behaviors.

6.) Let your mentee have control over what the two of you talk about - and how you talk about it - Be sensitive to the youth's cues. Don't push for confidences or fire too many questions at your mentee.

7.) Listen - Just listening is a critical form of emotional support.

8.) Respect the trust your mentee places in you - Respond in ways that you see your mentee's side of things. Give advice sparingly. Maintain confidentiality.

9.) Remember that you are responsible for building the relationship - Take responsibility for making and maintaining contact. Understand that youth may not give mentor's feedback and reassurance, but this does not mean that they are not benefiting from the relationship.

10.) Have fun together. With parent's support, mentors can expose young people to a wide range of new activities that are both fun and educational. Spending time with a mentor should be enjoyable for young people.